(Tampa, FL) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) today announced its endorsement of Florida Governor Rick Scott and Lieutenant Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera for re-election in November 2014. The endorsement was unveiled during the FRLA’s Marketing and Operations Summit held at the Hilton Tampa Downtown. Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel) and FRLA President and CEO Carol Dover spoke at the morning meeting, with Governor Scott addressing FRLA members and conference attendees via conference call.
“There is no question this Governor understands the importance of tourism and the vital role the hospitality industry plays in job creation and economic development,” said Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association President and CEO Carol Dover. “On behalf of our more than 10,000 members representing hoteliers, restaurateurs and suppliers, we are thrilled to give our strongest of endorsements to Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera this election cycle.”
“Governor Scott led the charge in securing $75 million for VISIT FLORIDA tourism marketing, and $700,000 for our Hospitality Education Program (HEP) which helps train the next generation of industry professionals,” said James E. McManemon, 2014 Chairman of the FRLA. “His goal in attracting 100 million visitors to our state is one that FRLA not only supports, but is working together in providing both residents and tourists the best possible experience in our hotels, our restaurants and all that Florida has to offer,” continued McManemon, General Manger of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
Florida’s $76.1 billion hospitality industry, which represents 23% of Florida’s economy, $4.6 billion in sales tax revenue, and nearly 1.1 million employees, is the state’s number one industry.

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY RICK SCOTT, REPUBLICAN, FOR GOVERNOR